ExercisesDumbbell diagonal raise

Dumbbell diagonal raise

Hold a dumbbell low across the front of one hip. Raise it on a diagonal up and away to the opposite side until your arm is overhead, then lower along the same line.

StrengthDumbbellsDifficulty 2 of 3
Two-panel demonstration of the dumbbell diagonal raise, showing the start and finish positions
Start and finish positions

How to do it

Hold a dumbbell low across the front of one hip. Raise it on a diagonal up and away to the opposite side until your arm is overhead, then lower along the same line.

Muscles worked

Front
Back
  • shouldersprimary

Hover a muscle to find it on the figure. Dark green is the primary mover, lighter green is supporting work.

Other options in this pattern

How many sets should you do?

That depends on your goal, your ability, and how many days you train. Answer three questions and the builder works out your sets and reps, plus a full week around them.

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Johnny Milaychev · Product manager and self-directed lifter, not a trainer or a clinician. Why that matters and where this guidance stops.
Reviewed 16 August 2026 · Exercise library v2.2